Project Cost Engineer (00471) (South Plainfield)

Project Cost Engineer

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Project Cost Engineer to support and enhance cost control functions across engineering and construction projects. This role is responsible for managing and analyzing costs, estimating project budgets, forecasting expenditures, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. The Project Cost Engineer will collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and stakeholders to maintain project budget integrity and support strategic decisions through effective cost reporting and earned value analysis. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of cost engineering tools, project controls, and reporting standards.

Position Responsibilities

• Performs all program cost controls, including budget updates, forecasting, change order and schedule of values reviews.
• Supports cost control functions by developing and maintaining cost control procedures, tools, and documentation.
• Tracks cost performance at project and program levels using earned value methodology.
• Implements and utilizes cost control software within the PMIS environment.
• Develops and maintains summary and detailed level cost estimates with limited guidance.
• Applies contract specifications to cost deliverables, ensuring compliance with financial obligations.
• Performs cost trend and variance analysis; identifies anomalies and potential root causes.
• Analyzes progress and scope data to determine variance drivers and budget impact.
• Supports development of what-if scenarios and risk-informed cost strategies.
• Prepares insightful reports summarizing actual and forecasted cost performance.
• Communicates financial performance updates during weekly / monthly meetings.
• Supports construction management teams with cost-related functions such as payments and change orders.
• Gathers and incorporates stakeholder inputs to maintain cost data accuracy.
• Collaborates effectively with project managers, engineers, and contractors.
• Other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications

$79,040 - $106,080 a year.

The salary range for this position is $79,040 - $106,080. A hired employee will be placed within this salary range based on a variety of legitimate business reasons, including but not limited to the individual's scope of relevant experience and geographic location.

Additional Requirements

Physical : Standing or sitting for long periods; must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times and spend extended hours in front of a computer screen.

Cognitive : Problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills; computer and software skills; and ability to read and interpret text online or in printed form.

About PMA

At PMA, employee well-being is a daily priority. We offer a combination of workplace options that include a PMA office location; work-from-home; or a client site. Wherever we work, we openly share knowledge as we believe that collaboration with peers improves our work product and that pursuing subject matter expertise is a lifelong endeavor.

We are committed to a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We affirm and respect diverse backgrounds and opinions because we believe they yield the best solutions for our clients. We promote emotional intelligence and trust by nurturing these values within our new hires.

We encourage staff to develop rewarding, long-term careers at PMA, and we implement formal leadership development programs that help you attain your goals. At PMA, shared success is a core value. Every employee who contributes is recognized, celebrated, and rewarded. We look for self-driven candidates eager to assume responsibility and join a community of respect founded on collaboration and accountability, not titles. If you aim to transform the project management practice toward continuous improvement of project outcomes, the profession, and yourself, PMA looks forward to warmly welcoming you to our team.

We offer competitive pay and benefits, wellness programs for you and your family, and career development opportunities to advance your professional goals.

As a PMA professional, you will be empowered to make timely and effective decisions and significant daily contributions to complex facets of project delivery. Join a team that has achieved a world-class reputation in the construction industry and has been voted a Best Place to Work.

PMA offers competitive wages and comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, vision, time off with pay, 401(k) with company match, life, disability, and professional development reimbursement for qualifying employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), disability, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. Qualified female and minority applicants are encouraged to apply. EOE, including persons with disabilities and veterans. VEVRAA federal contractor.